Solar panels, explained simply
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels turn daylight into electricity. An inverter converts that electricity into a form your home can use. You use the energy your panels produce first, reducing the amount you need to buy from the grid while the system is generating.
Panels can produce electricity on cloudy days, although output varies with the available daylight. Roof direction, shading and the season all affect generation. A property-specific design helps you understand what to expect.
A design that starts with your home
We offer Trina Solar panels with Fox ESS inverter options. The proposed equipment and panel count depend on your roof, electrical supply and energy use. We explain the specification in your quotation so you can compare your options.
- Your roof: usable space, condition, shading and access.
- Your electricity use: annual consumption and when you use it.
- Your future plans: an electric car, heat pump or changes to your household.
- Your priorities: initial cost, daytime use and whether to add storage.
Solar on its own, or with a battery?
If you use electricity during the day, you may be able to use more of your generation as it happens. A battery offers another way to store some of your surplus electricity for later. The right choice depends on your routine and the cost of each option.
We can compare solar-only and solar-with-battery proposals, each with one clear installed price. Explore home battery storage.
What does solar installation cost?
Our solar systems start from £5,695, subject to survey and system specification. Your written quotation confirms the total price, equipment, installation scope, access arrangements and any additional works. Battery storage is confirmed separately within your chosen specification.
For self-funded installations, our standard payment terms are a 25% deposit after signing and the balance on completion after commissioning and handover. Read your contract terms and cancellation information before proceeding.
From first chat to handover
- Understand your home. Share your postcode, electricity use and what you want to achieve.
- Review the design. Compare the proposed system, price and estimated generation.
- Confirm the survey. We check access, roof and electrics, and explain any required permissions or network approvals.
- Install and hand over. We agree the programme and explain equipment use and the documentation provided.
How much could you save?
Your estimate depends on the system design, electricity use, tariffs, weather and how much generated electricity you use at home. We explain the assumptions in your proposal. Estimates are not guaranteed savings.
For an independent introduction, read Energy Saving Trust’s solar panel guidance.